Minahasa Masked Owl
NameMinahasa Masked Owl
Common NameMinahasa Masked Owl
Scientific NameTyto inexspectata
FamilyTytonidae
Wingspan (cm)75
Length (cm)29
Weight (g)319
Plumage DetailsThe facial disc is a deep rufous-brown, bordered by a darker brown rim and a paler inner edge. Upperparts are dark rufous-brown, heavily mottled and barred with blackish markings. Underparts are paler, buffy-white to light rufous, with distinct dark spots. The wings and tail are barred.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations are not well-documented but are generally described as a drawn-out, hissing shriek, typical of barn owls.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Minahasa Peninsula of northern Sulawesi, Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesRufous-brown heart-shaped facial disc, Dark rufous-brown upperparts, Spotted pale underparts, Endemic to Minahasa, Sulawesi
Description
The Minahasa Masked Owl is a medium-sized barn owl characterized by its rich rufous-brown plumage and distinctive heart-shaped facial disc. It is a nocturnal predator, primarily inhabiting dense rainforests where it hunts small mammals and other vertebrates.
